Explore 135 Years of History at 1891 Financial Life
August 6, 2026
Step back in time and discover the remarkable story of a single act of kindness that grew into 135 years of faith, service, and financial protection.
1891 Financial Life invites the public to tour its historic memorabilia collection in celebration of the our 135th Anniversary. This special exhibit brings history to life through original artifacts, photographs, publications, member memorabilia, and treasured keepsakes that tell the story of an organization founded by courageous Catholic women in Chicago in 1891.
Guests will enjoy a guided presentation following "The 1-3-5 of 1891 Financial Life" — the organization's anniversary theme — which explores:
- One Act of Kindness that inspired the founding of the organization.
- Three Enduring Pillars — Protection, Service, and Partnership — that have guided generations of members.
- Five Commitments that continue to shape the future of 1891 Financial Life.
Along the tour, visitors will experience original historical treasures, including early membership records, the organization's original charter, photographs of its founders, memorabilia from member conventions, vintage publications, historic insurance rate books, Impact Team scrapbooks, and artifacts from Holy Family Church — the birthplace of 1891 Financial Life. Each display tells the story of the members, volunteers, and leaders whose faith and compassion have strengthened communities for more than a century.
Whether you have been a lifelong member, have a connection to the organization's history, or simply enjoy local history, this exhibit offers a unique opportunity to experience the legacy of one of the nation's oldest Catholic fraternal life insurance societies.
Public Historic Memorabilia Tour
Date: Wednesday, August 12, 2026
Time: 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Location:
1891 Financial Life Home Office
200 N. Martingale Road, Suite 405
Schaumburg, IL 60173
Admission is free, and all are welcome.
Appetizers will be available, first come first served.
To see a virtual tour of 1891 Financial Life memorabilia, click here.
PLEASE NOTE: If you are not a tenant of the 150/200 Martingale office buildings, you will need to please sign in at the first floor front desk.
Come celebrate 135 years of history, honor the people who built this remarkable organization, and discover how one act of kindness continues to inspire generations today.
About 1891 Financial Life
Our culture is about looking out for you, for others, for family, for the community. That is how we go “Beyond Life Insurance.”
At 1891 Financial Life, we don’t just sell policies, we offer possibilities. We take pride in giving back to the communities we serve by providing quality and comprehensive insurance solutions. We are a not-for-profit life insurance Society, which means the sales from these financial service products help fund member benefits, along with social, educational, and volunteer programs designed to respond to community needs. Our commitment to excellence has been recognized by Forbes, naming 1891 Financial Life among “The World’s Best Life Insurance Companies” in 2023 - and for the second time, as one of “America’s Best Life Insurance Companies,” ranking #1 in Term Life Insurance for 2026.
Our portfolio is extensive, ranging from various life insurance policies to our annuities to support your financial needs, no matter what stage of life you’re in.